The Duplicate Stitch

Have you ever finished a hat, a scarf, a bag or another knitted project and wish you could personalize it with a name, a saying or maybe a motif? Almost whatever you wish to add to your project can be accomplished with the Duplicate Stitch. The Duplicate Stitch is simply embroidering with wool. You are merely covering one stitch with a different colored wool. It is so easy and fun to do, you will be amazed at your finished project. Here's how it's done:

Step 1: Decide where you wish to start. Bring your tapestry needle with the yarn from the back to the front at the bottom of the ' V ' of the stitch you wish to cover.

Step 2: Now place your needle through the back of both strands of the stitch directly above the stitch you are covering. Gently pull your needle and wool all the way through but don't pull your yarn tight. Just let your yarn lay gently, but not too loose, on top of the stitch.

Step 3: You are now going to put your needle through the bottom 'V ' on the stitch you are covering, from front to back, in the same spot you started from, again letting the yarn lay gently on top of the stitch.

You have now completed your first stitch and are ready to repeat these 3 steps until you have your project finished. Here are a few little tips to help you along:

1) If you don't have a pattern to go by you can simply make up your own by first laying it out on graph paper. Don't forget to include 'spaces' as well as letters when deciding how many stitches will be required.

2) I find it is much easier to start from the bottom and work up rather than starting at the top. Also your embroidery will look better if you choose a yarn that is a bit heavier (i.e. worsted) than the project that you are working on.

3) Do not pull your yarn tight over your stitch. Keep your tension gentle and even.

4) When going from one direction to another, try not to jump more that 3 stitches. Rather, cut your wool and start with a new piece and weave in a few extra ends so that your work will not pucker once completed.

5) And lastly, don't panic if you make a mistake. This stitch is easily removed if you must take it back. Just relax and enjoy!
- Karen Simmons